A Sheffield community hero is celebrating after recognition at the House of Lords for her dedication to supporting the disabled.

Resident Karen Thistlethwaite has been rewarded with a British Citizen Award for her outstanding work to help disabled members of her community.

Launched in January 2015, the BCA, in partnership with InMoment, recognises extraordinary achievements by everyday people who have made a positive difference to the lives of others that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Dedicated mother Karen is credited with being the saviour of Sheffield City Knights, a social project providing care and support for people with disabilities. She received her BCA Medal from Irwin Mitchell’s Alison Eddy at the Palace of Westminster.

Following the untimely death of the Sheffield City Knights founder in 2011, Karen took on the responsibility of running the programme and continuing the group’s invaluable efforts in helping the disabled.

Karen said: “I was thrilled when they told me I was being awarded a BCA for something that has given me so much joy over the years. “Having a son with learning disabilities encouraged me to take over the group he’s involved with when the former leader tragically died. I am so thankful for being honoured with such a prestigious award because this doesn’t just reflect my work, but that of everyone who is involved with this organization.”

For the past 16 years Karen has also been jointly running the North Sheffield Carers Group, which is a group of carers and former carers who come together to support one another. Visit britishcitizenawards.co.uk website for more.